Integrated supportive device in garments

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece of garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: an elastic band configured to wrap around a waist of the user and provide upward and inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user upon wearing; an interface configured to attach the elastic band to the piece of garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the mechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust a length of the elastic band upon wearing; and an integration of the elastic band to the piece of garment, wherein the integration is configured to prevent at least a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body of the user upon wearing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional of, and claims the benefitof U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/187,515 entitled “integratedsupportive device in garments” filed Jul. 1, 2015, the entire contentsof which are incorporated herein by reference

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen will distend as the fetus grows andthe uterus expands. As the abdominal distension and weight gaincontinues, discomfort and difficulty increases even in daily activitiessuch as sleeping, walking, bending, or driving. Physical activities,especially sports activities, may be prone to induce and/or affected bydifferent health conditions including sports hernia, groin strain, andAchilles tendon rupture

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to supportive garment, protective garment,maternity support wear, postnatal support wear, performance protectionand support wear.

During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen will distend as the fetus grows andthe uterus expands. As the abdominal distention and weight gaincontinues, the gravid uterus applies downward and outward pressure ontothe pelvic floor and the abdominal wall. This results in straining onthe core muscles, the pelvis, and the pelvic organs. As a result,pregnant women are prone to a high incidence of: pelvic floordysfunction in about ⅓ of women; low back pain and pelvic girdle pain inabout ¼ of women; and diastasis recti in about ⅔ of women. In addition,the gravid uterus places pressure on the lymphatic drainage from thelower extremities, resulting in painfully swollen feet, ankles, andlegs. In the situation of high-risk pregnancy, the gravid uterus addspressure on the cervix, which may lead to premature labor, especiallyamong women with short cervix. In over half the women, postpartum longterm effects of these pressures may result in complications that lastafter child-birth. These include urinary frequency, urgency, stressurinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, constipation, sexualcomplaints, abdominal distension, low back pain, skin stretch marks, andloose lower abdominal skin. The incidence of these problems increasewith age at time of pregnancy and multiparity, both of which areincreasing trends in the modern day.

Physical activities among both men and women may also apply stress andstrain on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, pelvicfloor, hips, diaphragm, and back muscles. As an example, sportsactivities may result in muscle or tendon strain that causes pain, suchas with a sports hernia, hip labral tear, or Achilles tendon rupture.Jobs that result in heavy lifting and prolonged standing may result inlow back pain, abdominal wall and groin hernia. Weight gain and heavylifting may predispose one to diastasis recti. In some cases, the devicedisclosed herein includes a maternity support belt that is integratedinto the garment for gravid uterus support, pelvic floor support, and/orprotection. In alternative case, the device disclosed herein includes apostnatal support belt that is integrated into the garment for abdominalwall support and/or compression. In certain embodiments, the devicedisclosed herein alternatively includes a sport performance support beltthat is integrated into the garment for groin support, hip support,and/or core muscle support. In alternative embodiments, the devicedisclosed herein alternatively includes a lower extremity muscle andtendon support and/or compression for the foot and calf.

The device disclosed herein is different from loose maternity clothes,postnatal garments, or traditional sportswear. The device disclosedherein adds performance technology and support to the garments based onknowledge of anatomy, medical conditions, and surgical disease. In somecases, the device disclosed herein is configured to provide preventionof injury, including prevention of injury to the abdominal wall, pelvicfloor, hip, and lower extremity muscles and tendons. The medicalbenefits of the device disclosed herein, includes reduced pressure onbladder, less urinary frequency, less back pain, less pressure oncervix, and thus increased likelihood to get to term and therefore lesslikely to have early labor in women with short cervix less pressure ontop of legs, less pressure on lymphatics and therefore less legswelling, less skin stretching and perhaps stretch marks, less musclestretching and risk for diastasis of the muscles, and/or improvedoverall abdominal tone. The device disclosed herein is especiallyhelpful for women with the second or any later pregnancy, as the abdomenand pelvis are already stretched from previous pregnancies and they tendto have less support, for multiparous pregnancy such as twins ortriplets, and for working women who may need to be on their feet at workfor long periods of time. Additionally, the advantages associated withthe device disclosed herein includes alleviation of Diastasis Recti,reduced occurrence of sports induced hernia and/or groin strain, lessoccurrence of Achilles' tendon rupture, less calf swallowing, preventionof skin chafing, less postnatal complication, alleviation of stretchmarks, alleviation of urinary incontinence, alleviation of pelvic floordysfunction, less back pain, improvement in posture, improvedmedialization of rectus muscles early postpartum, and improved hipstabilization. The benefit of integrating the device disclosed hereininto clothing as opposed to wearing it separately, is that it is lesslikely to “ride” up or down as the body moves and thus it fits better tothe body. Further, the integration of the device discloses hereinunderneath a layer of clothing avoids direction contact with the skin,thus additionally reduces skin reaction, redness, chafing, or otherdiscomfort. The integration of the device disclosed herein into a pieceof a garment is removable, reversible, adjustable, and independent ofthe fabric, shape, or other properties of the garment.

In one aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece ofgarment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: an elasticband configured to wrap around a waist of the user and provide upwardand inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user uponwearing; an interface configured to attach the elastic band to the pieceof garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein themechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust a length of theelastic band upon wearing; and an integration of the elastic band to thepiece of garment, wherein the integration is configured to prevent atleast a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body ofthe user upon wearing.

In some cases, the band is elastic in three dimensions. In some cases,the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configured to allowremoval and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In somecases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to aperipheral side of the body when the device is properly worn. In somecases, the band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 40 cm. In somecases, the band comprises a length of about 10 cm to about 200 cm whenthe device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the elastic bandcomprises a length that fits around an abdominal region, when it isproperly worn. In some cases, the abdominal region is below a waist. Insome cases, the device further comprises a second interface configuredto connect to a supporting strap. In some cases, the supporting strap isa shoulder strap. In some cases, location of the connection between thesecond interface and the supporting strap is adjustable. In some cases,the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a beltbuckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, astrap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or acombination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment, the interface,or the piece of garment and the interface is configured to preventshifting of the device with respect to a human body. In some cases, theintegration is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In somecases, the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece comprising atop and a bottom. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein isconfigured to provide maternity support.

In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into a pieceof garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: atleast two elastic bands, wherein the at least two elastic bands are notsubstantially parallel to each other; an interface configured to attachthe elastic bands to the piece of garment; at least one mechanicallyadjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustableconnection is configured to adjust a length of the elastic band, whereinthe device is configured to provide abdominal support to the user, andwherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not directly contact a body ofthe user upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 10 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around an abdominalregion, when it is properly worn. In some cases, the abdominal region isbelow a waist, near a waist, or near a belly button. In some cases, theintegration is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In somecases, the abdominal region is below breasts and substantially above awaist or a belly button. In some cases, the piece of garment is a top ora bottom. In some cases, the mechanically adjustable connectioncomprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, abottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, aloop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases,the piece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garment and theinterface is configured to prevent shifting of the device with respectto a human body. In some cases, the piece of garment comprises a top anda bottom. In some cases, the at least two elastic bands overlappartially with each other. In some cases, an acute angle between alongest dimension of each elastic band is between 10 degrees and 89degrees, the acute angle being adjustable by a user. In some cases, thedevice disclosed herein is configured to provide postnatal support.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into apiece of garment for sport hernia support comprising: at least twoelastic bands, the at least two elastic bands are not substantiallyparallel to each other; an interface configured to attach to the pieceof garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein theat least one mechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust alength of the elastic band, wherein the device is configured to provideabdominal support, and wherein the device is integrated such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not make direct contact with ahuman body upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 2 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around at least part of anabdominal region, when it is properly worn. In some cases, the abdominalregion is below a waist, near a waist, or below a belly button. In somecases, the piece of garment is a bottom or a top. In some cases, themechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a beltbuckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, ahook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. Insome cases, the piece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garmentand the interface is configured to prevent shifting of the device withrespect to an area of a human body. In some cases, the at least twoelastic bands overlap partially with each other. In some cases, alongest dimension of any two elastic bands intersects with an acuteangle between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle beingadjustable. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein furthercomprises two additional elastic bands, the two additional elastic bandsare elastic. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein is configuredto provide sport hernia support, groin strain support, or sport herniasupport and groin strain support.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into apiece of garment for compression support comprising: at least twoelastic bands; an interface configured to attach to the piece ofgarment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the atleast one mechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust alength of the elastic band, wherein the device is configured to providecompression support, and wherein the device is integrated such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not make direct contact with ahuman body upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 2 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around a calf region, afoot, or a calf region and a foot, when it is properly worn. In somecases, the piece of garment is a sock. In some cases, the mechanicallyadjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcrofastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, a hook tape, a looptake, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases, thepiece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garment and theinterface is configured to prevent shifting of the device with respectto an area of a human body. In some cases, the at least two elasticbands are not substantially parallel. In some cases, a longest dimensionof any two elastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle being adjustable. In some cases,the device as disclosed herein further comprises two additional elasticbands, the two additional elastic bands are elastic. In some cases, thedevice as disclosed herein is configured to provide compression supportfor a calf, a foot, a leg, or a combination thereof. In some cases, theat least two elastic bands overlap partially with each other.

In an alternative aspect, disclosed herein is device integrated into asock for mechanical support and compression comprising: a first elasticband at a foot portion of the sock; and a second and a third elasticband at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the thirdelastic bands are not substantially parallel to each other and overlapat least partially with each other, wherein the first, second, and thirdelastic bands are integrated into the sock such that at least a portionof the elastic band does not make direct contact with a human body uponwearing, wherein the device is configured to provide compression andmechanical support to at least two muscles, at least one tendon, or bothof a wearer.

In some cases, one or more of the first, second, or third elastic bandis elastic in three dimensions. In some cases, the first, second, orthird elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 4 cm in arelaxed state. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length ofabout 1 cm to about 50 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In somecases, the first, second, or third elastic band comprises a length thatfits around a calf region, a forefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendonregion, or a combination thereof upon wearing. In some cases, the deviceis configured to prevent shifting of the first, second, and thirdelastic bands with respect to a lower leg and foot upon wearing. In somecases, a longest dimension of any two of the first, second, or thirdelastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89.9degrees. In some cases, the acute angle is adjustable by a wearer. Insome cases, the at least two muscles include a calf muscle, a soleusmuscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or a combinationthereof. In some cases, the at least one tendon is the Achilles' tendon.In some cases, the first elastic band is substantially a closed loopwrapped around a part of a foot of a wearer. In some cases, the part isa forefoot, an arch, or a combination thereof. In some cases, at leastone of the second and the third elastic bands is not a closed loop. Insome cases, the second and the third elastic bands intersect in a regionhigher than an Achilles' tendon region of the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity inthe appended claims. A better understanding of the features andadvantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to thefollowing detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments,in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and theaccompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein formaternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 2 shows another non-limiting example of a device described hereinfor maternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 3 shows another non-limiting example of a device described hereinfor maternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 4 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein formaternity support and/or protection.

FIG. 5 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forpostpartum support and/or protection.

FIG. 6 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forsport hernia and/or groin strain support and/or protection.

FIG. 7 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forsport hernia and/or groin strain support and/or protection.

FIG. 8 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forcalf and foot compression and/or support.

FIG. 9 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forpostpartum support and/or protection.

FIG. 10 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein forsport hernia groin strain support and/or protection.

FIG. 11 shows a non-limiting example of a device described herein formaternity support and/or protection.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

During pregnancy, a woman's abdomen will distend as the fetus grows andthe uterus expands. As the abdominal distention and weight gaincontinues, the gravid uterus applies downward and outward pressure ontothe pelvic floor and the abdominal wall. This results in straining onthe core muscles, the pelvis, and the pelvic organs. As a result,pregnant women are prone to a high incidence of: pelvic floordysfunction in about ⅓ of women; low back pain and pelvic girdle pain inabout ¼ of women; and diastasis recti in about ⅔ of women. In addition,the gravid uterus places pressure on the lymphatic drainage from thelower extremities, resulting in painfully swollen feet, ankles, andlegs. In the situation of high-risk pregnancy, the gravid uterus addspressure on the cervix, which may lead to premature labor, especiallyamong women with short cervix. In over half the women, postpartum longterm effects of these pressures may result in complications that lastafter child-birth. These include urinary frequency, urgency, stressurinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, constipation, sexualcomplaints, abdominal distension, low back pain, skin stretch marks, andloose lower abdominal skin. The incidence of these problems increasewith age at time of pregnancy and multiparity, both of which areincreasing trends in the modern day.

Physical activities among both men and women may also apply stress andstrain on the core muscles, which include the abdominal wall, pelvicfloor, hips, diaphragm, and back muscles. As an example, sportsactivities may result in muscle or tendon strain that causes pain, suchas with a sports hernia, hip labral tear, or Achilles tendon rupture.Jobs that result in heavy lifting and prolonged standing may result inlow back pain, abdominal wall and groin hernia. Weight gain and heavylifting may predispose one to diastasis recti. In some cases, the devicedisclosed herein includes a maternity support belt that is integratedinto the garment for gravid uterus support, pelvic floor support, and/orprotection. In alternative case, the device disclosed herein includes apostnatal support belt that is integrated into the garment for abdominalwall support and/or compression. In certain embodiments, the devicedisclosed herein alternatively includes a sport performance support beltthat is integrated into the garment for groin support, hip support,and/or core muscle support. In alternative embodiments, the devicedisclosed herein alternatively includes a lower extremity muscle andtendon support and/or compression for the foot and calf.

The device disclosed herein is different from loose maternity clothes,postnatal garments, or traditional sportswear. The device disclosedherein adds performance technology and support to the garments based onknowledge of anatomy, medical conditions, and surgical disease. In somecases, the device disclosed herein is configured to provide preventionof injury, including prevention of injury to the abdominal wall, pelvicfloor, hip, and lower extremity muscles and tendons. The medicalbenefits of the device disclosed herein, includes reduced pressure onbladder, less urinary frequency, less back pain, less pressure oncervix, and thus increased likelihood to get to term and therefore lesslikely to have early labor in women with short cervix less pressure ontop of legs, less pressure on lymphatics and therefore less legswelling, less skin stretching and perhaps stretch marks, less musclestretching and risk for diastasis of the muscles, and/or improvedoverall abdominal tone. The device disclosed herein is especiallyhelpful for women with the second or any later pregnancy, as the abdomenand pelvis are already stretched from previous pregnancies and they tendto have less support, for multiparous pregnancy such as twins ortriplets, and for working women who may need to be on their feet at workfor long periods of time. Additionally, the advantages associated withthe device disclosed herein includes alleviation of Diastasis Recti,reduced occurrence of sports induced hernia and/or groin strain, lessoccurrence of Achilles' tendon rupture, less calf swallowing, preventionof skin chafing, less postnatal complication, alleviation of stretchmarks, alleviation of urinary incontinence, alleviation of pelvic floordysfunction, less back pain, improvement in posture, improvedmedialization of rectus muscles early postpartum, and improved hipstabilization. The benefit of integrating the device disclosed hereininto clothing as opposed to wearing it separately, is that it is lesslikely to “ride” up or down as the body moves and thus it fits better tothe body. Further, the integration of the device discloses hereinunderneath a layer of clothing avoids direction contact with the skin,thus additionally reduces skin reaction, redness, chafing, or otherdiscomfort. The integration of the device disclosed herein into a pieceof a garment is removable, reversible, adjustable, and independent ofthe fabric, shape, or other properties of the garment.

In one aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated in a piece ofgarment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: an elasticband configured to wrap around a waist of the user and provide upwardand inward physical support to an abdominal region of the user uponwearing; an interface configured to attach the elastic band to the pieceof garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein themechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust a length of theelastic band upon wearing; and an integration of the elastic band to thepiece of garment, wherein the integration is configured to prevent atleast a portion of the elastic band from directly contacting a body ofthe user upon wearing.

In some cases, the band is elastic in three dimensions. In some cases,the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configured to allowremoval and attachment of the device to the piece of garment. In somecases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection is close to aperipheral side of the body when the device is properly worn. In somecases, the band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about 40 cm. In somecases, the band comprises a length of about 10 cm to about 200 cm whenthe device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, the elastic bandcomprises a length that fits around an abdominal region, when it isproperly worn. In some cases, the abdominal region is below a waist. Insome cases, the device further comprises a second interface configuredto connect to a supporting strap. In some cases, the supporting strap isa shoulder strap. In some cases, location of the connection between thesecond interface and the supporting strap is adjustable. In some cases,the mechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a beltbuckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, astrap, a ring, a clip, a loop tape, a hook tape, an adhesive tape, or acombination thereof. In some cases, the piece of garment, the interface,or the piece of garment and the interface is configured to preventshifting of the device with respect to a human body. In some cases, theintegration is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In somecases, the piece of garment is a top, a bottom, or a piece comprising atop and a bottom. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein isconfigured to provide maternity support.

In another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into a pieceof garment for providing abdominal support to a user comprising: atleast two elastic bands, wherein the at least two elastic bands are notsubstantially parallel to each other; an interface configured to attachthe elastic bands to the piece of garment; at least one mechanicallyadjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustableconnection is configured to adjust a length of the elastic band, whereinthe device is configured to provide abdominal support to the user, andwherein the device is integrated in the piece of garment such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not directly contact a body ofthe user upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 10 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around an abdominalregion, when it is properly worn. In some cases, the abdominal region isbelow a waist, near a waist, or near a belly button. In some cases, theintegration is underneath a top layer of the piece of garment. In somecases, the abdominal region is below breasts and substantially above awaist or a belly button. In some cases, the piece of garment is a top ora bottom. In some cases, the mechanically adjustable connectioncomprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, abottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, aloop take, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases,the piece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garment and theinterface is configured to prevent shifting of the device with respectto a human body. In some cases, the piece of garment comprises a top anda bottom. In some cases, the at least two elastic bands overlappartially with each other. In some cases, an acute angle between alongest dimension of each elastic band is between 10 degrees and 89degrees, the acute angle being adjustable by a user. In some cases, thedevice disclosed herein is configured to provide postnatal support.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into apiece of garment for sport hernia support comprising: at least twoelastic bands, the at least two elastic bands are not substantiallyparallel to each other; an interface configured to attach to the pieceof garment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein theat least one mechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust alength of the elastic band, wherein the device is configured to provideabdominal support, and wherein the device is integrated such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not make direct contact with ahuman body upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 cm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 2 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around at least part of anabdominal region, when it is properly worn. In some cases, the abdominalregion is below a waist, near a waist, or below a belly button. In somecases, the piece of garment is a bottom or a top. In some cases, themechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a beltbuckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, ahook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. Insome cases, the piece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garmentand the interface is configured to prevent shifting of the device withrespect to an area of a human body. In some cases, the at least twoelastic bands overlap partially with each other. In some cases, alongest dimension of any two elastic bands intersects with an acuteangle between 10 degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle beingadjustable. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein furthercomprises two additional elastic bands, the two additional elastic bandsare elastic. In some cases, the device as disclosed herein is configuredto provide sport hernia support, groin strain support, or sport herniasupport and groin strain support.

In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a device integrated into apiece of garment for compression support comprising: at least twoelastic bands; an interface configured to attach to the piece ofgarment; at least one mechanically adjustable connection, wherein the atleast one mechanical adjustable connection is configured to adjust alength of the elastic band, wherein the device is configured to providecompression support, and wherein the device is integrated such that atleast a portion of the elastic band does not make direct contact with ahuman body upon wearing.

In some cases, each elastic band is elastic in three dimensions. In somecases, the interface is a mechanically reversible interface configuredto allow removal and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.In some cases, the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body when the device is properly worn.In some cases, the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about40 cm. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length of about 2 cmto about 200 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases,the elastic band comprises a length that fits around a calf region, afoot, or a calf region and a foot, when it is properly worn. In somecases, the piece of garment is a sock. In some cases, the mechanicallyadjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcrofastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, a hook tape, a looptake, an adhesive tape, or a combination thereof. In some cases, thepiece of garment, the interface, or the piece of garment and theinterface is configured to prevent shifting of the device with respectto an area of a human body. In some cases, the at least two elasticbands are not substantially parallel. In some cases, a longest dimensionof any two elastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10degrees and 89 degrees, the acute angle being adjustable. In some cases,the device as disclosed herein further comprises two additional elasticbands, the two additional elastic bands are elastic. In some cases, thedevice as disclosed herein is configured to provide compression supportfor a calf, a foot, a leg, or a combination thereof. In some cases, theat least two elastic bands overlap partially with each other.

In an alternative aspect, disclosed herein is device integrated into asock for mechanical support and compression comprising: a first elasticband at a foot portion of the sock; and a second and a third elasticband at a leg portion of the sock, wherein the second and the thirdelastic bands are not substantially parallel to each other and overlapat least partially with each other, wherein the first, second, and thirdelastic bands are integrated into the sock such that at least a portionof the elastic band does not make direct contact with a human body uponwearing, wherein the device is configured to provide compression andmechanical support to at least two muscles, at least one tendon, or bothof a wearer.

In some cases, one or more of the first, second, or third elastic bandis elastic in three dimensions. In some cases, the first, second, orthird elastic band comprises a width of about 1 mm to about 4 cm in arelaxed state. In some cases, the elastic band comprises a length ofabout 1 cm to about 50 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In somecases, the first, second, or third elastic band comprises a length thatfits around a calf region, a forefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendonregion, or a combination thereof upon wearing. In some cases, the deviceis configured to prevent shifting of the first, second, and thirdelastic bands with respect to a lower leg and foot upon wearing. In somecases, a longest dimension of any two of the first, second, or thirdelastic bands intersects with an acute angle between 10 degrees and 89.9degrees. In some cases, the acute angle is adjustable by a wearer. Insome cases, the at least two muscles include a calf muscle, a soleusmuscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or a combinationthereof. In some cases, the at least one tendon is the Achilles' tendon.In some cases, the first elastic band is substantially a closed loopwrapped around a part of a foot of a wearer. In some cases, the part isa forefoot, an arch, or a combination thereof. In some cases, at leastone of the second and the third elastic bands is not a closed loop. Insome cases, the second and the third elastic bands intersect in a regionhigher than an Achilles' tendon region of the wearer.

In some cases, the device disclosed herein comprises a hidden lowprofile maternity belt integrated into a piece of garment. In somecases, the device disclosed herein comprises a hidden low profilepostpartum wrap integrated into a piece of garment. In some cases, thedevice disclosed herein comprises a hidden low profile elastic bandintegrated into a piece of garment for support performance support,specifically designated to protect the user from sport hernia, groinstrain, or Achilles's tendon rupture. In some embodiments, the deviceimproves and facilitates the closure of closure of Diastasis Recti andreturn of the wearer's figure. Such device is used for mothers afterchild delivery or regular people that suffer from Diastasis Recti. Insome embodiments, the device includes unique side closures with ateleast one Velcro closure to cinch the lower belly up for support. Insome case, the device includes foldable side gussets with lightweightpleated fabric to allow for easy in and out. In some case, the deviceincludes attachable suspenders for extra-large bellies. In someembodiments, the device is applicable to any traditional bottoms, tops,underwear, or socks. In some embodiments, the piece of garment with thedevice integrated therein provides a smooth and a natural appearance asif the device is not integrated therein. Further, the garment with thedevice integrated therein is comfortable and convenient to wear.

Elastic Bands and Strips

In some case, the device disclosed herein includes one or more elasticbands. As disclosed herein, in some cases, the band may be a closed loopwith its two ends connected to each other, or an elongate strip with twoopen ends. In alternative cases, the band may be a substantially closedloop with connection elements, (as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 1, 4,6). In some cases, the elastic band includes a spatial direction that islonger than the other two spatial dimensions, and the length is alongthe longest spatial dimension of the elastic band in a relaxed,non-stretched state. In some cases, the length/longest dimension of theelastic band is along a line curved in a three dimensional space. As anonlimting example, a length/longest dimension of the elastic band issubstantially the circumference of a loop shown as the belt 10 inFIG. 1. As a nonlimting example, a length/longest dimension of theelastic band is substantially the length of line 522 shown as in FIG. 5.In some embodiments, the elastic band is wrapped so that the two endsalong the longest spatial dimension of the strips have at least someoverlap upon wearing, for a nonlimting example, FIG. 9. In alternativeembodiments, two ends of the elastic bands along the longest dimensionare not connected to each other upon wearing, for a nonlimting example,FIGS. 5, 8. In further cases, the overlapping portion of the bands alongthe longest spatial directions is not connected to each other or notsubstantially parallel to each other upon wearing, for a nonlimtingexample, FIG. 5. Such configuration of the overlapping portion is forincreased flexibility and adjustment in providing customized support tothe wearer. In some embodiments, the two ends and/or the overlappingportion along the longest spatial directions are Criss-crossed. Theacute crossing angle therebetween is among about 10 to about 89 degrees.In alternative embodiments, two or more elastic bands are substantiallyparallel to each other, for a nonlimting example, FIG. 11. In somecases, two or more elastic bands does not overlap with each other, for anonlimting example, FIG. 11.

In some embodiments, the elastic band is elastic in one, two, or threedimensions. In some embodiments, the elastic band is stretchable alongits longest spatial dimension. In some cases, the elastic band shrinksalong its second longest dimension and/or shortest dimension. In somecase, the elastic band is equivalent to an elastic strip as disclosedherein. In some embodiments, the elastic band includes one or moreelastic bands.

In some embodiments, each elastic band has a length and a width. In someembodiments, the length of the elastic band is along the longestdimension. As a nonlimiting example, the longest dimension may be acircumference of a loop, a length, or a diagonal. In some cases, thelongest dimension may be curved in a three dimensional space. Inalternative cases, a longest dimension may be at the relaxed andunstressed state of the elastic band/strip. In some case, the elasticband is an elastic strip. In some embodiments, each elastic band has alength or a width in between 5 mm to 200 cm. In some embodiments, theelastic band has a thickness that is smaller than its width and itslength. In some embodiments, the elastic band has a thickness in betweenabout 0.1 mm to about 5 cm.

In some embodiments, the device includes at least one, two, three, orfour elastic bands. In alternative cases, the device includes anarbitrary number of elastic bands. In some embodiments, the deviceincludes a wrap-around band comprising at least two elastic bands. Insome embodiments, if the device includes more than one elastic band, thebands are not substantially parallel to each other. In further cases,the bands are in Criss-cross with an acute angle between at least 10degrees to at least 89 degrees. In some embodiments, the bands overlaparound the midline of the wearer's body to provide enhanced support inthe overlapping region. In some embodiments, the elastic bands arealigned with targeted muscle groups. In some embodiments, the elasticbands stretch in direction of groin oblique muscles, and/or adductormuscles. In some embodiments, each elastic band stretches in directionsubstantially parallel or perpendicular to a muscle or a muscle group inorder to optimize the support.

In some embodiments, the integration, the elastic bands, the shape ofthe elastic bands, the device, the portion of garment covering thedevice and the integration has minimal interruption to style and fashionof the garment. In some embodiments, the wrap-around feature of theelastic band functions as a fashion statement.

In some embodiments, the width of the elastic band is consistent alongits length. In some embodiments, the width of the elastic band varies inorder to optimize the comfort and amount of support for different partof the wearer's body. As a non-limiting example, the elastic band isthicker at the back to provide amble back support when it is properlyworn.

Referring to FIG. 3, in a particular embodiment, an elastic band isproperly worn around the waist. The garment that the device isintegrated within is not shown. In this case, the elastic band isadjustable at a location other than a peripheral side of the wearer toprovide appropriate amount of support with the adjusted waist size. Theelastic band is wide enough to also enable back support of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the elastic band or the elastic band includes themaximal support/protection in a direction that is substantiallyperpendicular to the length of the band or strip. In some cases, theelastic stretching occurs mostly along the length of the band or strip.In some cases, the elastic shortening occurs mostly along the length ofthe band or strip. In some cases, the elastic stretching occurs mostlyalong the width of the band or strip. In some cases, the elasticshortening occurs mostly along the width of the band or strip.

Interfaces

In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein includes an interfaceor use of the same. In some cases, the interface includes a fastenerelement and/or an adjustment element. In further cases, the interfaceprovides connection of the device to a piece of garment. In someembodiments, the interface connects directly to the complimentaryinterface of the piece of garment. In some cases, the interface and thecomplimentary interface enables fastening of the device to a certainlocation of the piece of garment. In some embodiments, the interface andthe complimentary interface enables fastening of the device to a part ofthe wearer's body. In some embodiments, the interface and thecomplimentary interface enables fastening of the device to a part of thehuman body so that it ensures the support and protection during physicalactivities, for preventing activity associated injury or damages to thewearer's body. In some embodiments, the interface and the complimentaryinterface allows adjustment of the length, width, wrapping, theCriss-cross angle with another strip or band, the overlap area withanother strip or band, the orientation of the elastic strip, theorientation of the elastic band, the elastic property of at least oneelastic band.

In some embodiments, an interface, a complementary interface, or use ofthe same is installed to a traditional piece of garment to enableintegration of the device disclosed herein. In some embodiments, theinterface, the complimentary interface, or user of the same is removedso that a device integrated in a piece of garment is removed. In someembodiments, the connection between the interface and the complimentaryinterface is removed so that a device integrated in a piece of garmentis removed.

Integration

In some cases, the device disclosed herein is integrated into a piece ofgarment. In some embodiments, the integration provides one or moreadvantages selected from: avoid direct skin contact, protection of theuser's skin and/or body damages caused by direction contact or frictionwith the device, prevent damage of the device caused by direct contactor friction with the user's body, and prevention of undesired shiftingof the device with respect to a certain part of the user's body causedby wearing the device as a stand-alone device.

In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein is integrated into apiece of garment using one or more selected from: sewing, a belt, abuckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro attachment, a hook, a snap, an eye, aloop, a button, a clip, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, anda clasp. In some embodiments, the integration is permanent. In someembodiments, the integration is reversible. In some embodiments, theintegration is through a reversible attachment to a piece of garment viaat least one interface. In some embodiments, the interface fits to acomplementary interface of the garment to form the attachment. In someembodiments, the interface is not in direct contact with any part of thewearer's body when the device is properly worn. In some embodiments, theinterface includes a module design so that the device is attachable tomultiple pieces of garment through the attachment to differentcomplimentary interfaces of different garments.

In some embodiments, the device, the interface, the integration, or acombination thereof is hidden beneath a piece of clothing so that it isnot directly visually identifiable when it is properly worn. In someembodiments, the device, the interface, the integration, or acombination thereof is sufficiently concealed underneath the top layerof the garment of integration. In some embodiments, the device, theinterface, the integration, or a combination thereof is hidden above apiece of clothing so that it is not directly contacting the user's bodywhen it is properly worn.

In some embodiments, one or more devices are integrated into one or morepieces of garment that can be worn simultaneously to provide independentsupport of one or more regions of the wearer's body.

In some cases, the device is integrated below the upper edge of thebottom. In some case, the device is integrated near the upper portion ofthe bottom. In some embodiments, the device is integrated below thebreast region of a top. In some embodiments, the device is integratedabove the lower edge of a top.

In some cases, the device is integrated in a piece of garment so that itis part of the garment. As a non-limiting example, the device is sewedin a piece of garment like the elastic waist band of an active bottom.

Adjustments

In some cases, one or more property of the device is user adjustable. Insome cases, the length of the device is user adjustable using a closurelocated close to the midline or the peripheral side of the wearer'sbody. In some embodiments, the closure uses one or more selected frombelt, a buckle, a zipper, a tie, a Velcro attachment, a hook, a snap, aneye, a loop, a button, a clip, a hook tape, a loop take, an adhesivetape, and a clasp.

In some embodiments, the amount of wrapping is adjustable, as weight andwaist changes during pregnancy or postpartum. In some embodiments, theadjustment and proper wearing of the device helps promote closure ofDiastasis Recti and return of the mother's figure.

In some embodiments, the adjustment of the device is associated with ordependent upon the adjustment of the piece of garment covering it. Inother cases, the adjustment of the device is independent of theadjustment of the piece of garment covering it.

Referring to FIG. 1, in a particular embodiment, a hidden belt 10including elastic band 101 may be integrated to a pair of pants, a pieceof top, or a garment including a waist area (for a nonlimting example, ajumpsuit or a dress) (not shown) near the waist of the garment. The beltmay provide abdominal support to the wearer. In this case, the elasticband may include an adjustable connection 102 optionally at the left orthe right side of the pants. The adjustable connection 102 may allowadjustment of the total length of the elastic band as well as may ensureappropriate amount of support at various adjusted waist sizes. Theadjustable connection may include an extendable unit 103 and a fasteningunit 104. The extendable unit may optionally be made of a less elasticmaterial than the elastic band. Such extendable unit may render lessresistance in extending the belt to a desired waist size. In someembodiments, the belt 10 sits lower on the waist at the front than atthe back of the user, and such difference at the front and the back isuser adjustable so at to provide personalized comfort and optimalsupport for different users or a single user at different stage ofpregnancy. In this case, the width of the belt may be optionally uniformor variable at different locations. The length of the elastic band isthe circumference of the belt.

Referring to FIG. 4, in a particular embodiment, a hidden belt 40 may beintegrated into a pair of pants, a piece of top, or a garment includinga waist area (for a nonlimting example, a jumpsuit or a dress) (notshown) around the waist area for abdominal support. The elastic band 401may be adjustable along with the waist of the garment at both peripheralsides via an adjustable connection 103, 104 to gauge the pull on theintegrated device.

Referring to FIG. 2, in a particular embodiment, a pair of pants, apiece of top, or a garment including a waist area (for a nonlimtingexample, a jumpsuit or a dress) (not shown) include a hidden belt 20including an elastic band 201 near its waist area. In the same case, thepants may further include one or more shoulder straps 205 for support ofthe belly in addition to the support of the belt. In this case, theshoulder straps may be optionally located at a user selected position ofthe waist to provide comfort, support, and convenience to the users. Theshoulder strap may include a connection 205 on the front side and/or aconnection 206 on the back side of the wearer to mechanically connectwith the hidden belt. The connection may not direct contact the body ofthe wearer for optimized comfort and safety. In this case, the belt 20may be hidden underneath the pants. The shoulder straps may beoptionally located to avoid pressing on the breasts of the wearer.

FIG. 3 shows an a side view of the belt 30 as disclosed herein which mayinclude a n elastic band 301 with non-uniform width (along thehead-to-foot direction of the wearer). The piece of garment is notshown. The elastic band may be wider at the back of the user andnarrower at the front side of the user. Such wider back side may providesufficient support and distribute the same amount of force over a largerarea thus may exert less pressure to the back of the wearer forproviding the same abdominal support. The front side may be narrower toavoid bending of the elastic band along its width. The narrower frontside may be advantageous to avoid covering and pressing of undesiredareas. As a nonlimiting example, the narrower front side of the elasticband may be worn below the waist line and below the belly to provideupward and/or inward support to the wearer. Keeping the belt narrow atthe front may help avoid pressing the pregnant belly of the wearer andthe organs and the baby therewithin.

The belt 10, 20, 30, and 40 may include one or more mechanicallyadjustable connections 102, 103, 104, 403, and 404 that is configured toadjust the length of the elastic band. Such adjustment may at the sametime affect the level of support that the elastic band may be able toprovide to the user. In some cases, the adjustable connection 102 mayinclude two or more structural elements. The structural element mayinclude a fabric with adjustable length 103, a fastening or lockingelement 104 that may lock the fabric at a user selected length. Thelocking element may include but may not be limited to a latch, a hook, aloop, a button, a zip, a button hole, a hook tape, a loop tape, anadhesive tape, or the like. In some cases, the mechanical adjustableconnection may be positioned on one or both side of the wearer toincrease comfort and convenience. The connection located on a side orboth side(s) may be advantages as it may be more accessible to thewearer. The belt may be adjustable to provide abdominal support to usersat different stage of pregnancy and/or with different belly sizes. Insome cases, the connection includes a locking element 104 that isconfigured to enable pulling from the front to the back of wearer. Suchconfiguration more ergonomic and provides less undesired impact andbetter support for the pelvis than pulling back to front or along otherdirections.

The belt 10, 20, 30, and 40 may include a mechanical interface thatallows attachment of the belt to a piece of bottom. The mechanicalinterface may be reversibly mounted to the garment. When the belt is notneeded, the mechanical interface may be removed from the piece ofgarment depending on the need of the wearer. It may reduce weight of thegarment, avoid wear and tear to the mechanical interface, and enablemore flexibility to suit different users. Further, a reversiblemechanical interface may be mounted to different pieces of garment toenable wearing of the same belt or different belt with differentclothing options. Alternatively, the mechanical interface may bepermanently mounted to the garment. Such permanent mounting may ensureeasier, faster, safer, and more reliable attachment of the belt to thepiece of garment. The permanent mounting of the interface may be lessprone to accidental breakage or falling of the interface. The mechanicalinterface may be configured to provide a reversible attachment of thebelt to the piece of garment so that the belt may be attached to orremoved from the pants conveniently by the wearer. The garment may beworn together with or independent of the belt. Further, the mechanicalinterface may be hidden within the piece of garment along with the beltsuch that they are not directly contacting the body of the wearer. Inaddition, the mechanical interface may be hidden within the piece ofgarment along with the belt such that they are not exposed to anexternal environment. A hidden belt with hidden interface may providesignificant comfort to the wearer as they may move along with the pieceof garment relative to the body as a single unit. In addition, the beltand interface with no direct contact to the human body may alleviate thestrict requirements on fabric of making as they may present much less orminimal health threats to the human body. For nonlimiting example, nodirect contact may help avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction,allergy to the fabric, overheating the skin by the fabric, lowbreathability of the fabric, or the like. It may also reduce the cost offabric in making the belt and/or interface. Further, a belt withinterface not visible from outside may also provide high cosmetic valuesto the pieces of garment.

The belt 10, 20, 30, and 40 may be integrated in a way that a part orthe entirety of the elastic band does not directly contact a human bodywhen the belt is worn properly. The integration may include two separatelayers of the garment that covers the elastic band on one or both sidesof the elastic band. The integration may be a fabric pocket with one ortwo openings that may allow sliding of the elastic band in or out of thepocket. The integration may alternatively be a sleeve of the elasticband. The integration may be padding or cushion customized to fit atleast a portion of the inner side of the elastic band. As a nonlimitingexample, a belt may be sandwiched by two fabric layers of the garmentand mechanically attached to the garment. As another example, the beltmay include a cover of the elastic band, the cover being between theelastic band and the body when the belt is worn underneath the garment.No direct contact with the user body may be advantageous. A belt with nodirect contact with a wearer's body may provide significant comfort tothe wearer as they may move along with the piece of garment relative tothe body as a single unit. In addition, the belt with no direct contactto the human body may alleviate the strict requirements on fabric ofmaking as they may present much less or minimal health threats to thehuman body. For nonlimiting example, no direct contact to the belt mayhelp avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction, allergy to the beltfabric, overheating the skin by the belt fabric, low breathability ofthe belt fabric, or the like. It may also reduce the cost of belt fabricin its making. Further, a belt not visible from outside may also providehigh cosmetic values to the pieces of garment.

The belt 10, 20, 30, and 40 may provide abdominal support to users ofdifferent body sizes and/or body shapes. The belt may be adjustable toprovide abdominal support to users at different stage of pregnancyand/or with different belly sizes. As can been seen in FIGS. 1-4, thebelt may be worn such that the front side of the belt is below thewaistline and the belly button while the back side of the belt may beworn higher than the front side of the belt. The belt may provide upwardand/or inward abdominal support to the wearer. The abdominal region andits weight may push the band to elastically extend, while the belt mayprovide support in a direction that is against the pushingforces/pressures that exists in specific areas. The abdominal support atdifferent site of the abdominal region may be different in its value orits direction. The belt may provide abdominal support such that weightand pressure to abdominal region may be partially or completely reducedby support from the back. In other words, the band may lift theabdominal region upward and inward by adding abdominal weight to theback via the elastic band. Thus, the belt may be wider on its back sideto reduce pressure in unit area of the wearer's back underneath theband. The belt may also be higher on its back side to securely stabilizethe belt when the abdominal region may have a tendency of stretching thebelt downward and outward, especially in combination with motion of thewearer.

Referring to FIG. 9, in a particular embodiment, a bottom may include ahidden device 90 comprising one elastic band 901 that may be crossedclose to or at its two open ends 901 a, 901 b. In this case, the hiddendevice with the crossed elastic band may provide support postpartum topromote closure of Diastasis Recti. The elastic band may have a size(stretched or relaxed) that may be sufficient to allow it to wrap arounda waist area of a user and also have two open ends crossed securely. Thetwo open ends of the elastic band may be crossed in customized mannersthat optimally provide support with comfort to the wearer. Optionally,the hidden device may include a mechanical fasten element (not shown,see 104, 404) that may fasten the two crossed ends of the elastic band.The elastic band may be hidden underneath the top layer of the bottom.Alternatively, the elastic band may be enclosed within a fabric layersleeve. Optionally, the elastic band may overlap or cross near themidline 907 of the wearer. Such overlapping or cross may enable optimalsupport around the Diastasis Recti of the wearer. The elastic band maynot overlap or cross on the back of the wearer. In some embodiment, theparticular wrapping and overlapping style of the bottom is user adjustedto maximize individualized comfort and support. In the same case, thebottom optionally provides multiple wrapping options thus multiple styleoptions to adjust to different weight, waist, body figure, and/or userdemands. The elastic band may be worn lower than the waist line or thebelly button. The elastic band may be wider on the back of the wearer.

Referring to FIG. 5, in a particular embodiment, a top and optionally amatching bottom (FIG. 9) may each include a hidden device 50. The hiddendevice may include two Criss-crossed elastic bands 506, 507. TheCriss-crossed bands may provide support postpartum to promote closure ofDiastasis Recti. Each elastic band may have a length, (either stretchedor relaxed) that is sufficient to cover a part or the entire front sideof a wearer. Each elastic band may have a length 522 that is sufficientto cover a part or the entire front side of a wearer. The elastic bandsmay overlap, or intersect with an angle with each other near the midline507 of the user in a region 521. The elastic bands may be hiddenunderneath the top layer of the top. The elastic bands may be integratedto the top via an interface (not shown). The length of the Criss-crossedbands may be adjustable to enable optimal support for patients withdifferent body shape and body sizes with comfort. The crossed band maybe attached to each other at their overlapping area via a mechanicalconnection. Alternatively, the crossed band may not be attached to eachother at their overlapping area to enable optimal flexibility inwrapping and fastening each elastic band independently. Further, notattaching the overlapping areas to each other may enable customizedsupport to meet need for different users. Each crossed band may beattached to the top at its one end 505 a, 506 a or both its ends 505 a,505 b, 506 a, 506 b via one or more mechanical connections. Themechanical connection may or may not be adjustable or reversible. Themechanical connection may include two collaborating elements.Nonlimiting examples of the mechanical connection may include one ormore selected from a latch, a hook, a loop, a button, a zip, a buttonhole, a hook tape, a loop tape, an adhesive tape, or the like.

As disclosed in FIG. 5, in some cases, the mechanical support providedby the devices disclosed herein from elastic band(s) is part of aneveryday garment such as a top, a legging, or pair of pants, a camisole,or the like. In some cases, the device is not a separate belt worn undera piece of garment that can scratch and erode the skin. Additionally,the device is not a piece of loose maternity outfit. In certainembodiments, the device integrated into a daily outfit is moreaccessible to pregnant women than stand-alone maternity belts. Further,the device integrated into a daily outfit is easier to wear thanmaternity belts, which can be inappropriately placed.

Referring to FIG. 11, in a particular embodiment, a base layer top mayinclude a hidden device 110 with a plurality of hidden elastic bands1101 below the breasts and around the abdominal region. The hiddenelastic bands may be substantially parallel to each other with orwithout different fabric or material sewed in between them. In somecases, the hidden elastic bands do not overlap with each other. In someembodiments, each elastic band wraps about the wearer not in a closedloop such that the two ends along the longest dimension of each elasticband does not connect or overlap with each other. In other embodiments,each elastic band wraps around the wearer in a closed loop with orwithout a connection element to connect the two ends along the longestdimension. The elastic band along with the waist of the top isadjustable at the side of the top to provide appropriate amount ofsupport for different body sizes and/or body shapes. One end 1101 a ofone or more elastic bands may be attached to a side of the top withnon-adjustable attachment. Alternatively, one end 1101 b of one or moreelastic bands may be attached to a side of the top with an adjustableattachment. Such attachment may be reversible to increase flexibility inwearing the elastic bands. As an example, a wearer in need of stomachsupport may remove elastic bands beneath the lowest tip of her stomachvia the reversible attachment and only wear the rest of the elasticbands. As another example, the wearer in need of stomach support mayincrease length of elastic bands beneath her stomach via the adjustableend 1101 b to decrease support amount in certain areas. One or moreelastic bands may sit lower on the waist at the front than at the backof the user, and such difference at the front and the back is useradjustable so at to provide personalized comfort and optimal support fordifferent users or a single user at different stage of pregnancy. Inthis case, the width of each band is uniform or non-uniform at differentlocations. The adjustable attachment at one or both end of the elasticbands 1101 a, 1101 b may be similar to the mechanically adjustableconnections 102, 103, 104, 403, and 404. The adjustable attachment atone or both end of the elastic bands 1101 a, 1101 b may include twocollaborating elements. Nonlimiting examples of the mechanicalconnection may include one or more selected from a latch, a hook, aloop, a button, a zip, a button hole, a hook tape, a loop tape, anadhesive tape, or the like.

Support and Protection

In some embodiments, the device comprises one or more metal plates foradditional weight support. In some embodiments, the device comprises oneor more uplifting straps 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 901, 1101 foradditional weight support. In some embodiments, the device disclosedherein provides support for one or more selected from: an abdominalregion, a belly, a stomach, a back, a lower back, a calf, a foot, abreast, and a waist. In some embodiments, the device provides one ormore selected from: maternity support, abdominal support, rectus musclesupport, nursing breast support, postpartum support, sport herniasupport, groin strain support, calf support, calf compression, footcompression, and abdominal compression.

In some embodiments, the device is worn below the breasts. In somecases, the device is worn above the waist. In some case, the device isworn below the waist or the belly button. In some embodiments, thedevice is worn around the waist or the belly button. In some case, thedevice is worn around the torso. In some embodiments, the device is wornnear the Achilles tendon. In some embodiments, the device is worn aroundthe arch of the foot, and or near the peripheral sides of a calf.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of a hidden device 60 as disclosedherein in an activity bottom. The hidden device may include at leastfive elastic bands 608, 609, 610, 611, 612. The hidden device mayinclude four elastic bands 608, 609, 610, 611 optionally aligned indirection of groin oblique muscles (608, 609, 610, 611), and/or adductormuscles (608, 609, 610, 611) The hidden device may include one elasticband 612 that may optionally wrap around the waist. The hidden devicemay include one elastic band 613 to add additional support for muscles.The alignment of elastic bands with specific muscles may facilitate bandstretching to maximize protection and support for sport hernia and/orgroin strain. In the same embodiment, zone-specific stretch provided bythe device is along direction of oblique muscles, adductor muscles, andhip stabilizers. Optional pads may be added for protection from fallinjury to hip and/or coccyx.

Referring to FIG. 7, in a particular embodiment, an activity bottom isintegrated with a hidden device 70 which may include three elastic bands712, 713, 714. The device may include one elastic band 712 thatoptionally wraps s around the waist. The device may include two bandsoptionally aligned in direction of groin muscles, and/or adductormuscles, 713, 714. The alignment of elastic bands with specific musclesmay facilitate band stretching to maximize protection and support forsport hernia and/or groin strain. In some cases, the device 70 isintegrated on top of the device 60 of FIG. 6 into the same or adifferent piece of garment such that it may provide comprehensivesupport and protection with the functionalities of each individualdevice (two right most panels). In alternative cases, the device 70 isintegrated in a regular bottom (second panel to the left) along withoutthe device 60. In some cases, device 60 and 70 alone or in combinationmay provide support to those with existing hernias, strain, or sportsinjury. In some cases, device 60 and 70 alone or in combination mayoptionally provide support to prevent possible hernia, strain or sportsinjuries.

The hidden device 60, 70 may be weaved into the activity bottom.Alternatively, the hidden device may be reversibly attached to thebottom via a mechanical interface in device 10, 20, 30, and 40. At leasta portion or the entirety of the hidden device may not directly contactthe body of the wearer.

The device 60, 70 may be integrated in a way that a part or the entiretyof the elastic band does not directly contact a human body when thedevice and/or the garment it attaches thererto is worn properly. Theintegration may include two separate layers of the garment that coversthe elastic band(s) on one or both sides of the elastic band(s). Theintegration may be a fabric pocket with one or two openings that mayallow sliding of the elastic band(s) separately or together in or out ofthe pocket. The integration may alternatively be a sleeve of one or moreelastic bands. The integration may be padding or cushion customized tofit at least a portion of the inner side of the elastic band (s). As anonlimiting example, a device may be sandwiched by two fabric layers ofan active short and mechanically attached to the garment. As anotherexample, the device may include a cover for each of the elastic band(s)or the elastic bands together. The cover may be between the elasticband(s) and the body when the device is worn underneath the garment. Nodirect contact with the user body may be advantageous. A device with nodirect contact with a wearer's body may provide significant comfort tothe wearer as they may move along with the piece of garment relative tothe body as a single unit. In addition, the device with no directcontact to the human body may alleviate the strict requirements onfabric of making as they may present much less or minimal health threatsto the human body. For nonlimiting example, no direct contact to thedevice may help avoid or reduce skin rashes due to friction, allergy tothe belt fabric, overheating the skin by the belt fabric, lowbreathability of the belt fabric, or the like. It may also reduce thecost of fabric in its making. Further, a device not visible from outsidemay also provide high cosmetic values to the pieces of garment.

Referring to FIG. 10, in a particular embodiment, an activity bottomincludes five elastic bands, four elastic bands optionally aligned indirection of groin oblique muscles, and/or adductor muscles, the otherone elastic band optionally wraps around the waist. The five elasticbands may be similar in position and function as the elastic bands inFIGS. 6, 7. In this case, the alignment of elastic bands facilitatesband stretching to maximize protection and support for sport herniaand/or groin strain. In some cases, a separate set of base layercompression shorts may add an insert 1015, 1016 for padding to the sides(hip) and/or to the back (coccyx) for additional protection inactivities.

Referring to FIG. 8, in a particular embodiment, a device 80may beintegrated into a sock to provide compression as well as mechanicalsupport for the foot and the lower leg. The device includes one elasticband 817 that optionally wraps around the arch of the fore foot. Thedevice includes two bands optionally wraps below calf muscles 818, 819and/or one band optionally wraps around the Achilles' tendon 820. Thealignment of elastic bands facilitates band stretching to maximizeprotection and support for foot compression, calf compression, and/orAchilles' tendon rupture. In this case, the vertical Achilles's band 820optionally stops at the gastrocnemius or calf section (bottom panel). Inthis case, the vertical Achilles's band optionally continues through thegastrocnemius or calf section (top panel). The elastic bands may includespecial elastic ribbed patterns that may have similar effect askinesiotaping of the calf and the forefoot. In the same embodiment, thecompression sock includes elastic band over-the-calf or below-the-calf.In this embodiment, the compression sock support for Achilles's tendon,calf muscle, and forefoot stability.

In some cases, the device includes a first elastic 817 at a foot portionof the sock; and a second and a third elastic band 818, 819 at a legportion of the sock, wherein the second and the third elastic bands arenot substantially parallel to each other and overlap at least partiallywith each other with an overlapping area 821. In some cases, the firstelastic band is substantially a closed loop wrapped around a part of afoot of a wearer, wherein the part is a forefoot, an arch, or acombination thereof. In certain cases, at least one of the second andthe third elastic bands is not a closed loop, and they intersect in aregion higher than an Achilles' tendon region of the wearer.

In some cases, the elastic bands/strips are integrated into the sockwith a top fabric layer, a bottom fabric layer, or both such that theelastic band does not make direct contact with a human body upon wearingand I the elastic bands are not visible from the outside upon wearing.In some cases, the device is configured to provide both compression andmechanical support to muscles, at tendon(s), or both of a wearer. Incertain embodiments, the device is configured to prevent shifting of thefirst, second, and third elastic bands with respect to a lower leg andfoot upon wearing.

In some cases, the elastic bands 817, 818, 819 include a width of about1 mm to about 4 cm in a relaxed state, or a length of about 1 cm toabout 50 cm when the device is in a relaxed state. In some cases, thelength of the elastic bands/strips that fits around a calf region, aforefoot, an arch, an Achilles' tendon region, or a combination thereofupon wearing. In some cases, a longest dimension of any two of theelastic bands/strips intersect with an acute angle between 10 degreesand 89.9 degrees, wherein the acute angle is adjustable by a wearer.

In some cases, the device is configured to support a calf muscle, asoleus muscle, a gastrocnemius muscle, a plantaris muscle or acombination thereof. In some cases, the device is configured to supportthe Achilles' tendon.

In some cases, the device 80 is configured to provide mechanical supportand compressive support to the forefoot and muscles of the lower legthus they are less prone to injuries during activities. Such injuriesmay include a muscle strain, tear, rupture or the like. Further, themechanical support may protect weaken muscles due to existing medicalconditions. In some cases, the device 80 is configured to reduce tensionon the tendon(s) thus they are less prone to injuries during activities.In some cases, the device is different from padding or cushion thatreduces injury only by damping external impact(s).

Shoulder Straps

In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein includes at least oneshoulder strap. In some case, the shoulder strap is connected to thegarment with the device integrated therein. In some cases, the shoulderstrap is connected directly to the garment and directly or indirectly tothe device integrated therein. In some embodiments, the connection isthrough an interface. In some cases, the connection is concealed beneatha top layer of the garment so that it is invisible when the shoulderstrap is properly worn. In some embodiments, the shoulder strap isconnected to the inside of the piece of garment. In further embodiments,the shoulder strap is connected in a way that it does not press on thebreasts of the wearer. In other cases, the shoulder strap is connectedin a personalized manner that it provides optimal support to theindividual that is wearing it. In some embodiments, the shoulder strapsis used for women with different pregnancy stages or users with backproblems including back pain.

Fabrics and Materials

In some cases, the device comprises polyester, rubber, nylon, spandex,elastane, cotton, plastic, metal, polyester, silk, viscose, elasthan, ora combination thereof. In some embodiments, the device is stretchable inone, two, or three spatial dimensions. In some embodiments, the deviceand the piece of garment that the device integrated therewithin includescomparable elastic functions so that the garment stretches in a similarfashion as the device stretches. In some case, the garment includes anelastic property that is within a 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30%difference range of the matching elastic property of the device. As anon-limiting example, a device has aYoung's modulus of 1 gigapascal(GPa), the garment has a Young's modulus of 0.9 to 1.1 gigapascal (GPa)if the elastic property of the garment is within a 10% difference rangeof the device. In some embodiments, the piece of garment that the deviceintegrated therewithin includes softer materials or fabrics comparing tothe device in order to ensure the comfort of the wearer.

In some embodiments, the device, or the piece of garment has aYoung'smodulus in the range of about 0.1 GPa to 30 Gpa. In some embodiments,the materials or fabric forming the device or forming the piece ofgarment have different elastic properties. In some embodiments, thedifferent material or fabric forms a uniform composite material orfabric in at least a part of the device or the garment. In someembodiments, the different material or fabric are used in differentregions of the device or the garment thus providing variable elasticityin different regions of the device or the garment.

Garments

In some embodiments, a piece of garment is a top, a bottom, a sock, apiece of underwear, a piece of base layer, a camisole, a pair of shorts,a skirt, a pair of pants, a jumpsuit, a belt, a wrapping piece, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, a piece of garment isconfigured to enclose a device therewithin through connection via theinterface and the complimentary interface. In some embodiments, a pieceof garment is a regular or an off-the-shelf piece of clothing. In someembodiments, a piece of garment is any clothing article that can beadapted to include an interface or a complimentary interface to hold atleast one device disclosed herein concealed and not visuallyidentifiable when the article and the device are properly worn.

In some embodiments, a red arrow in the figure represents a stretchingor pulling direction of an elastic band or an elastic band.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the samemeaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art towhich this invention belongs. As used in this specification and theappended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any referenceto “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwisestated. As used in this specification and the claims, unless otherwisestated, the term “about,” and “approximately” refers to variations ofless than or equal to +/−1%, +/−2%, +/−3%, +/−4%, +/−5%, +/−6%, +/−7%,+/−8%, +/−9%, +/−10%, +/−11%, +/−12%, +/−14%, or +/−15%, depending onthe embodiment. As a non-limiting example, about 100 meters represents arange of 95 meters to 105 meters, 90 meters to 110 meters, or 85 metersto 115 meters depending on the embodiments. The term “substantially ”refers to less than or equal to +/−1%, +/−2%, +/−3%, +/−4%, +/−5%,+/−6%, +/−7%, +/−8%, +/−9%, +/−10%, +/−11%, +/−12%, +/−14%, or +/−15%variation. As a non-limiting example, substantially parallel representsa range of −1 to 1 degree difference, −5 to 5 degree difference, or −15degrees to 15 degrees of difference from being parallel, depending onthe embodiments.

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent, or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments, of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

1.-77. (canceled)
 78. A device integrated in a piece of garment thatprovides abdominal support to a user comprising: a) at least two elasticbands, wherein the at least two elastic bands are not substantiallyparallel to each other and overlaps at least partially with each otherupon wearing; b) an interface attaching said elastic bands to the pieceof garment; and c) at least one mechanically adjustable connection,wherein the at least one mechanical adjustable connection adjusts alength said elastic bands, wherein said elastic bands provides abdominalsupport to the user, and wherein the device is integrated in the pieceof garment such that at least a portion of the elastic band does notdirectly contact a body of the user upon wearing.
 79. The device ofclaim 77, wherein each of said elastic bands is elastic in threedimensions.
 80. The device of claim 77, wherein the interface is amechanically reversible interface configured to allow removal andattachment of the device to the piece of garment.
 81. The device ofclaim 77, wherein the at least one mechanically reversible connection isclose to a peripheral side of the body upon wearing.
 82. The device ofclaim 77, wherein the elastic band comprises a width of about 1 cm toabout 40 cm.
 83. The device of claim 77, wherein the elastic bandcomprises a length of about 10 cm to about 200 cm when the device is ina relaxed state.
 84. The device of claim 77, wherein the elastic bandcomprises a length that fits around an abdominal region upon wearing.85. The device of claim 77, wherein the integration is underneath a toplayer of the piece of garment.
 86. The device of claim 84, wherein theabdominal region is below breasts and substantially above a waist or abelly button.
 87. The device of claim 77, wherein the piece of garmentis a top.
 88. The device of claim 77, wherein the mechanicallyadjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a belt buckle, a Velcrofastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, a strap, a ring, aclip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or a combinationthereof.
 89. The device of claim 77, wherein the piece of garment, theinterface, or the piece of garment and the interface prevents shiftingof the device relative to a human body upon wearing.
 90. The device ofclaim 77, wherein an acute angle between a longest dimension of eachelastic band is between 10 degrees and 89 degrees.
 91. The device ofclaim 77 provides postnatal support to the user upon wearing.
 92. Adevice integrated in a piece of garment that provides abdominal supportto a user comprising: a) at least two elastic bands, wherein the atleast two elastic bands are substantially parallel to each other and donot overlap with each other upon wearing; b) an interface attaching saidelastic bands to the piece of garment; and c) at least one mechanicallyadjustable connection, wherein the at least one mechanical adjustableconnection adjusts a length said elastic bands, wherein said elasticbands provides abdominal support to the user, and wherein the device isintegrated in the piece of garment such that at least a portion of theelastic band does not directly contact a body of the user upon wearing.93. The device of claim 92, wherein each of said elastic bands iselastic in three dimensions.
 94. The device of claim 92, wherein theinterface is a mechanically reversible interface configured to allowremoval and attachment of the device to the piece of garment.
 95. Thedevice of claim 92, wherein the at least one mechanically reversibleconnection is close to a peripheral side of the body upon wearing. 96.The device of claim 92, wherein the elastic band comprises a width ofabout 1 cm to about 40 cm.
 97. The device of claim 92, wherein theelastic band comprises a length of about 10 cm to about 200 cm when thedevice is in a relaxed state.
 98. The device of claim 92, wherein theelastic band comprises a length that fits around an abdominal regionupon wearing.
 99. The device of claim 92, wherein the integration isunderneath a top layer of the piece of garment.
 100. The device of claim98, wherein the abdominal region is below breasts and substantiallyabove a waist or a belly button.
 101. The device of claim 92, whereinthe piece of garment is a top.
 102. The device of claim 92, wherein themechanically adjustable connection comprises a belt eyelet, a beltbuckle, a Velcro fastener, a zipper, a bottom, a hook, a loop, a tie, astrap, a ring, a clip, a hook take, a loop take, an adhesive tape, or acombination thereof.
 103. The device of claim 92, wherein the piece ofgarment, the interface, or the piece of garment and the interfaceprevents shifting of the device relative to a human body upon wearing.104. The device of claim 92, wherein separation between two adjacentbands of said elastic bands are of a different elasticity to saidelastic bands.
 105. The device of claim 92 provides postnatal support tothe user upon wearing.